mantori.suzuki

My son is a rising high-school senior deciding where to apply for Fall 2010. We have moved around the country but are pretty much Northerners (Great Lakes area). However, because of excellent scholarships and good reputation, I'm thinking he should apply to Auburn. Could someone please answer a few general questions I have about Auburn?

Is there any reason a Northerner wouldn't fit in well? My son is open-minded and accepting of all kinds of people, but not a social activist or anything.

How is the ethnic diversity? I'm wondering about all kinds of diversity, but specifically, are there many Asians?

Is the Honors College significantly more interesting or challenging than the university overall?

Is the area hard to get to from the rest of the country (air, train, car)?

How are the science programs? Do a fair number of students go on to top graduate schools in the sciences?

Are there good opportunities for students to get involved in theater (not as a major, just for fun)?

What kinds of outdoor activities are there? Where we live my son loves to go hiking in the mountains and go canoeing.

Thanks for your time and help, Auburn people!

alwaysandforever

I can answer a few.

1. I can't think of any reason why a Non-Southern wouldn't fit in. Although a fairly conservative campus, Auburn is known for having very friendly students. Case in point, the Hey Day tradition. About Auburn - Traditions

2. Unfortunately, the Asian attendance is a bit low. ~2% of the UG population is Asian, with ~86% being white. College Portraits - Auburn University - Student Characteristics

3. I can't answer for the Honors College as I am a rising senior who will be applying to Auburn. I'm *fingers crossed* eligible for it and think it's a good idea. You get a bunch of perks and can take smaller, more intense classes within the typical university setting. Honors College

4. There are 2 big airports within 2 hours of Auburn: Hartsfield-Jackson (ATL) and Birmingham International. Whenever you fly in the South, you will most likely have to fly into ATL so it makes it really convenient. I come up to Auburn for football games during the season from Florida, and it's really not that bad.

5. No idea on Science. I'm an English person

6. Here's a list of club sports listed. I know that's not really what you asked but it might be healthy.
Indoor Outdoor Off Campus
Badminton Lacrosse (Women) Bass Fishing
Table Tennis Rugby Cycling
Volleyball Soccer (Men) Rowing
Water Polo Soccer (Women) Sailing
Wrestling Tennis Water Skiing
Karate

Also, I know that Chewacla State Park is pretty close to Auburn. "Tranquil park facilities include a 26-acre lake, rental boats, swimming area, playgrounds, hiking trails, a modern campground and picnic areas with tables, grills and shelters."-http://www.stateparks.com/chewacla.html

I urge you to go visit Auburn to get the real feel. I've gone many times, both as a daughter/sister/cousin of Auburn alum and as a prospective student. They do a really great campus tour and everyone is extremely friendly. You can also contact the Auburn Admissions office during the summer (very helpful!) either via their Facebook page or just by phone.

Hoped this helped

War Eagle!